STORY
Betty Ferrell Named Ohio Conference Women’s Ministries Director
April 1, 2026
Francis Tuffour
The Ohio Conference welcomes Betty J. Ferrell as its new Women’s Ministries Director, bringing with her a deep commitment to service, spiritual growth, and leadership shaped by decades of professional and ministry experience.
Ferrell began her journey of faith in a small town in central Illinois, where she grew up in a Lutheran home and later attended a Baptist church. After losing her father at a young age, her family joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church—an experience that shaped her faith and deepened her understanding of the Sabbath.
Her path into ministry developed over time through her work in healthcare. As a registered nurse for more than 32 years, Ferrell served in various areas of cardiac care and leadership. Her academic background, including an MSN and MBA, further strengthened her ability to lead with both compassion and organizational effectiveness. Through these experiences, she came to recognize that true healing encompasses both physical and spiritual care.
“I felt a clear calling from God to go beyond clinical care and minister to the whole person,” Ferrell said. “Through prayer and life experiences, that calling became undeniable.”
In her new role, Ferrell is especially passionate about empowering women across Ohio. She sees Women’s Ministries as a vital space for fostering growth, connection, and transformation within diverse communities.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to uplift women and help them discover their God-given purpose,” she said. “I want to strengthen ministries at the local church level and support women as they grow in their faith and leadership.”
Looking ahead, Ferrell envisions a vibrant and connected ministry that engages women of all generations. Her goal is to cultivate environments where women are spiritually nurtured, equipped for service, and actively involved in sharing Christ.
“I hope to see God move powerfully across Ohio by fostering authentic relationships and creating spaces where lives are truly transformed,” she said. “It’s about walking alongside women as they deepen their personal relationship with Him.”
A guiding scripture in Ferrell’s life and ministry is Psalm 25:5: “Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation.” She says this verse serves as a daily reminder to seek God’s direction, remain teachable, and trust His leading.
Outside of ministry, Ferrell enjoys spending time with her family—including her husband, two children, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren—as well as traveling, kayaking, and reading.
She shares a message of unity and faith with members across the Ohio Conference: “Together in Christ, we will grow stronger, reach further, and witness God do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think.”
share this
Related Stories
The Greater Cleveland Seventh-day Adventist Church concluded its 10-day evangelistic series, “A Better Tomorrow,” with a baptismal service celebrating individuals who publicly committed their lives to Jesus Christ. The series was presented by Pastor Israel Okyere and hosted by Pastor Michael Opuni. Throughout the 10-day event, community members gathered in person and online to study the Bible, strengthen their faith, and learn about God’s plan for their lives. Each evening featured messages centered on practical and biblical themes, including spiritual awakening, transformation, assurance, commitment, and decision. Through preaching, prayer, and fellowship, attendees were encouraged to deepen their relationship with Christ. The series concluded with a baptismal service in which several individuals publicly professed their faith through baptism. Family members, friends, and church members gathered to witness and celebrate the occasion as the candidates entered the waters of baptism, symbolizing their new life in Christ. Following the series, the Greater Cleveland Seventh-day Adventist Church affirmed its commitment to supporting the newly baptized members in their spiritual growth while continuing its mission of sharing the gospel throughout the community.
A conference departmental leader and ministry partners are highlighting the power of service-driven outreach through a featured discussion on "Christ's Method in Action," showcasing efforts to meet practical needs while building stronger, healthier communities. The program, presented on 3ABN Today, features Pastor Delthony Gordon, Adventist Community Services (ACS) Director for the Ohio Conference and pastor of the Beavercreek Seventh-day Adventist Church, alongside Nicole Braxton of AMEN Free Clinic. The discussion focuses on collaborative approaches to community engagement, compassionate service, and improving access to essential resources. Participants emphasized the importance of addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs through hands-on ministry and community partnerships. The conversation highlights how faith-based organizations and healthcare-focused outreach initiatives can work together to serve individuals and families facing challenges. "Christ's Method in Action" illustrates a model of service that seeks to build trust, foster relationships, and create meaningful opportunities for positive change throughout Ohio communities using the important outreach arm - Adventist Community Services. The program serves as an example of the ongoing commitment of community organizations, volunteers, and ministry leaders who are working to provide practical support and hope to those in need. For more information about Adventist Community Services in Ohio and related outreach initiatives, visit www.ACSOhio.org , or email acs@ohioadventist.org.
Led by Elder Mark Mirek and Diana Mirek, teachers at Piqua Adventist Christian School, eight students played a central role in leading Education Day at the Lima Seventh-day Adventist Church, highlighting the value of Adventist Christian education. The students actively participated in the worship service, taking part in Scripture reading, prayer, congregational singing, and instrumental music. Their musical contributions featured a variety of instruments, including the keyboard, banjo, double bass, cajón, and castanets. A highlight of the service was a powerful personal testimony shared by Elder Mark Mirek. He spoke emotionally about his journey from atheism to faith in Jesus Christ, and how that transformation ultimately led him to a calling in Adventist education. His message resonated deeply with the congregation and underscored the life-changing impact of faith-based learning. The presence and participation of the students were a meaningful blessing to the church community. “It was truly inspiring to see these young people so engaged in worship and ministry,” said First Elder Courtney Simons. “Their involvement is a testament to the strong spiritual foundation being built at Piqua Adventist Christian School.” Following the service, members expressed appreciation for the students’ contributions and the school’s commitment to nurturing both academic excellence and Christian character. Events like Education Day continue to strengthen the connection between the church and its school, reminding all in attendance of the importance of investing in the next generation. At Piqua Adventist Christian School, students are provided with an environment that integrates faith and learning, encouraging them to develop spiritually, academically, and socially. Programs like Education Day offer students valuable opportunities to serve, lead, and share their faith within the broader church community.
STAY UP TO DATE
GET CONFERENCE'S LATEST
Receive monthly updates from the conference, and get a heads up on upcoming events.
Contact Us
